BREAKING NEWS

United Way 2013 Campaign Passes Halfway Mark Raising More Than $700,000

The 2013 United Way Campaign has passed the halfway mark, having raised $726,309 so far this year, or 55 percent of the $1,315,000 goal.

“With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we’re asking people to not forget about United Way,” said Deb Kathman, campaign co-chair. “We want to wrap up this fundraising effort over the next couple weeks, so it’s vital that companies and individuals return their pledges as soon as possible so we can add them to the final total.”

Money raised through the annual campaign goes to support 18 partner agencies and 39 programs in southern Chautauqua County. Deke Kathman, campaign co-chair, stressed the importance of making sure these programs are funded at the appropriate levels.

“United Way partner agencies continue to meet the need year after year,” Deke Kathman said. “For any one of these agencies to experience a cut in funding would impact their ability to deliver the high quality services and programs that impact thousands of individuals every single day. The success of this campaign will ensure these agencies have the resources to do their jobs.”

The United Way Campaign runs through the end of the year, with workplace campaigns wrapping up at the end of November.

“Our workplaces that ran campaigns should have their packets filled out and pledges returned to the United Way soon,” Deb Kathman said. “In fact, much of December will have us following up with the individuals and businesses, crossing t’s and dotting i’s to ensure the success of the campaign. This is a team effort, and it will take the entire team working together for us to reach our goal.”

The 2013 United Way Campaign officially kicked off on Sept. 12 at the Girls Scouts Service Center on Horton Road. Since then, close to 50 volunteers have been hitting the streets to deliver packets and drum-up support.

“This is truly a volunteer-led initiative,” Deke Kathman said. “As our volunteers go, so goes the campaign. We are so fortunate to have a truly remarkable group of men and women dedicated to making this area a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

For more information about the United Way or the 2013 Campaign, call them at 483-1561, visit them at www.uwayscc.org, check them out on Facebook: United Way of Southern Chautauqua County, or follow them on Twitter: UWayof SoChautCounty@uwayscc.